Privacy Policy
Last update: March 2025
1. Introduction
This Privacy Policy sets out the practices and procedures of the Geophysical Institute of Israel (hereinafter: “the Institute”, “we”, “us” or “our”) regarding the collection, use, and protection of information obtained through our website (hereinafter: “the Service”).
By accessing or using the Service, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Privacy Policy and agree to the practices described herein. If you do not agree, please discontinue use of the Service.
2. Key Terms
Throughout this document, the following terms carry the meanings set out below, whether used in singular or plural form:
- “Personal Data” refers to any information that identifies or could be used to identify a specific individual.
- “Usage Data” refers to technical information gathered automatically as a result of visiting or interacting with the Service.
- “Device” means any internet-connected device used to access the Service, including computers, smartphones, and tablets.
- “Cookies” are small data files stored on your Device by a website to retain certain information about your session or preferences.
- “Service Provider” refers to any third party engaged by the Institute to process data on our behalf or to assist in delivering the Service.
- “You” refers to the individual or entity accessing the Service.
3. Information We Collect
3.1 Information You Provide Directly
When contacting us or using certain features of the Service, you may be asked to supply information that could include:
- Full name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Organization or company name
- Subject of inquiry
3.2 Usage Data Collected Automatically
When you visit the Service, certain technical data is collected automatically. This may include:
- IP address and approximate geographic location
- Browser type and version
- Operating system
- Pages visited and time spent on each page
- Referring URL and exit pages
- Unique device identifiers and diagnostic data
When the Service is accessed via a mobile device, additional information such as mobile device type, unique device ID, and mobile operating system may also be collected automatically.
4. Tracking Technologies and Cookies
The Institute may use Cookies and similar tracking mechanisms to monitor usage patterns and enhance your experience on the Service. These technologies include session-based and persistent tools such as browser cookies, pixel tags, and web beacons.
Cookies used on our Service fall into the following categories:
- Essential Cookies (Session): Required to enable core functionality of the Service, including authentication and security features. Without these, certain parts of the Service may be unavailable.
- Acceptance Cookies (Persistent): Used to record whether you have acknowledged the use of cookies on the Service.
- Functionality Cookies (Persistent): Enable the Service to remember your preferences and settings, providing a more tailored browsing experience.
You may configure your browser to decline cookies or to alert you when cookies are being set. Please note that doing so may limit access to certain features of the Service.
5. How We Use Your Information
The Institute may process your Personal Data for the following purposes:
- To deliver and maintain the Service, and to monitor its performance and usage.
- To manage your account and provide access to features available to registered users.
- To fulfil contractual obligations arising from agreements made through the Service.
- To communicate with you by email, phone, or electronic messaging regarding updates, service-related notices, or security alerts.
- To send information about our services, events, or offerings that may be of interest to you, where you have not opted out of receiving such communications.
- To handle and respond to your inquiries and support requests.
- To evaluate or facilitate business transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, or asset transfers, where your data may be among the assets involved.
- To conduct internal analysis, identify usage trends, and improve the quality of our Service.
6. Sharing Your Information
We do not sell your Personal Data. We may, however, share it in the following circumstances:
- With Service Providers who assist in operating the Service or analysing its usage, subject to appropriate confidentiality arrangements.
- In connection with a business transaction such as a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, where Personal Data may be transferred as part of the deal.
- With affiliated entities, where such affiliates are bound by privacy obligations consistent with this Policy.
- With trusted business partners who help us deliver specific services or promotions, where applicable.
- In public areas of the Service, where information you choose to share may be visible to other users.
- With your explicit consent, for any purposes not otherwise covered by this Policy.
7. Retention of Personal Data
Personal Data will be retained only for as long as is necessary to fulfil the purposes described in this Privacy Policy, or as required by applicable law. This includes retaining data to resolve disputes, enforce agreements, or comply with legal obligations.
Usage Data is typically held for a shorter period, unless it is required to support the security or functional improvement of the Service, or where a longer retention period is mandated by law.
8. International Data Transfers
Your Personal Data may be processed at the Institute’s offices or at locations where our Service Providers operate. This may involve transferring data to countries whose data protection laws differ from those in your country of residence.
By using the Service and providing your information, you consent to such transfers. The Institute will take all steps reasonably necessary to ensure your data is handled securely and in line with this Privacy Policy.
9. Disclosure of Personal Data
9.1 Business Transactions
In the event that the Institute is involved in a merger, acquisition, or asset sale, your Personal Data may be transferred to the relevant parties. We will endeavour to notify you before such a transfer takes effect.
9.2 Legal Requirements
The Institute may be required to disclose your Personal Data where obliged to do so by law or in response to a lawful request from a competent public authority, including courts or government agencies.
9.3 Protection of Rights
We may disclose Personal Data where we believe in good faith that doing so is necessary to:
- Comply with applicable legal obligations
- Protect and assert the rights or property of the Institute
- Investigate or prevent suspected misconduct in connection with the Service
- Safeguard the personal safety of users or the general public
- Defend against legal claims or liability
10. Security of Your Personal Data
The Institute employs technically and organisationally appropriate measures to protect your Personal Data against unauthorised access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. However, no method of electronic storage or internet transmission can be guaranteed to be entirely secure, and absolute security cannot be assured.
11. Minors
The Service is not directed at individuals under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect Personal Data from children. If you are a parent or guardian and believe your child has submitted Personal Data through the Service, please contact us promptly. Upon becoming aware of such a situation, we will take appropriate steps to delete the relevant information from our systems.
12. Links to External Websites
The Service may include hyperlinks to third-party websites not operated by the Institute. We have no control over and accept no responsibility for the content, privacy practices, or policies of those sites. We encourage you to review the privacy policy of any external site you visit.
13. Updates to This Policy
We may revise this Privacy Policy from time to time. Where changes are material, we will publish the updated Policy on this page and, where appropriate, notify you by email or through a notice on the Service. The “Last updated” date at the top of this document will reflect the date of the most recent revision.
Continued use of the Service following the publication of any changes constitutes your acceptance of the revised Policy. We recommend reviewing this page periodically to stay informed.
14. Contact Us
For any questions, requests, or concerns regarding this Privacy Policy or the handling of your Personal Data, please reach out to us using the details below:
Geophysical Institute of Israel
6 Halperin St., Holon 5810201, Israel
Tel: +972-3-5567374
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.gii.co.il
This Privacy Policy is governed by the laws of the State of Israel, including the Privacy Protection Law, 5741-1981.